Step back in time to the elegance of the 1860s with the enchanting Cedarcroft Mansion, a historic gem nestled on 3.7 acres in Kennett Square, PA. Priced at $1.2 million, this remarkable property boasts 7 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, and a wealth of original details that transport you to a bygone era.
Commissioned by the renowned Bayard Taylor, a world traveler celebrated for his literary works and poetry, Cedarcroft was constructed between 1859 and 1860 at a cost of $15,000. Steeped in history, the mansion played host to legendary figures such as Ralph Waldo Emerson, John Greenleaf Whittier, James Russell Lowell, and Horace Greeley.
The architectural grandeur of Cedarcroft is evident in its large brick Italianate design, described by Taylor as “large and stately, simple in its forms, without much ornament … expressive of strength and ornament.” While the main house is a testament to this timeless aesthetic, the adjoining brick carriage house awaits restoration.
Upon entering the mansion, the first floor welcomes you with 13′ ceilings, a majestic Entry Hall featuring a grand staircase, a spacious Living Room and Library adorned with handsome fireplaces, and a large Dining Room with an exquisite fireplace. The Kitchen, accessible from both the Entry Hall and Dining Room, beckons for a complete refurbishment. A Mud Room with laundry hookup and access to a two-car garage completes this level.
Ascending to the second floor, discover a Master Suite with a fireplace, private bath, and generous closet/dressing area. Another sizable bedroom with a fireplace and five additional bedrooms await, offering the potential to customize and create larger spaces by removing walls. The four bathrooms on this level require comprehensive refurbishment, while access to the Tower adds a unique touch.
The third floor features a full bathroom, additional bedrooms/storage rooms, and the air handling equipment for the home’s central air conditioning. The basement, accessible from the Garage, houses the oil heater, hot water heater, electrical panels, and a root cellar waiting to be transformed into a wine cellar.
Situated on two parcels totaling 3.7 acres in the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District, Cedarcroft is a rare and high-profile offering, brimming with potential for restoration to its former glory. As this property is being sold by an estate, it is presented in “As-Is” condition. Don’t miss the chance to own a piece of history on 108 Bayard Rd, also known as Gatehouse Drive. This property, spanning 7,132 sqft, is not just a home; it’s a captivating journey through time.
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Listed by: Holly Gross
610-431-1100
